[TriLUG] Mate 16.04 No longer updating software via software center or terminal commands

[JB via TriLUG]

Running Mate 16.04 on Asus Q504 and it seems I can no longer
update certain pieces of software using both software center and
terminal commands. I think it's because I installed a command to make
the backlight on computer run properly, but I have no idea how to fix
it.  is there a way to send you terminal files or is there someone who
might be able to assist me with fixing this?  I would hate to have to
reinstall the entire package, but if I need to no biggie. Thanks!