I started a new character after the last patch and the objective to deliver the shield to Aela is showing her location to be Bleakwind Basin, but when I go there, she's nowhere to be found. In game, the marker directs me to Jorrvaskr, but she is not in the room with Skjor. This completely and truly breaks the Companions and their quest line cannot be pursued.

In Silverdrift Lair, there are two barred doors. Both of the doors open from either side (even the wrong side) but the bars cannot be activated. This one is merely annoying because I have to retrace my steps rather than take the shortcut out.

Previous to this patch, I have been through the companions quests with every character I've made since 11/11/11 and I've never had any issues. Only went through Silverdrift a few times previous but didn't have any issues with those bars either.

Concerning Aela: Have you checked out in the fields, where the Companions fight a giant when you first get to Whiterun? Just a guess.