Apps missing after 5.0 update-need to recover data

Did a full back up and 5.0 update on my ipad, yet nearly half of the apps did not return. Functionality is now compromised and apps constantly crashing since the update also.

NO, I did not unplug the ipad before the apps were re-synced onto the computer .

Important apps like Notes Plus are gone with a full year's worth of extensive notes. Notes plus does not even show on itunes in the apps section for my ipad anymore.

I have upgraded my iphone a number of times, and it has always been seamless. Not one shred of data missing, no quirks. This update is a disaster.

Is there any way to find the notes plus app backed up anywhere or any way to recover lost data / apps from this disasterous upgrade ?