An eastern Iowa software company is laying off half of its 400 workers today. Officials with Mattel Interactive in Hiawatha told employees the news yesterday, with the layoff effective today. Employee Tammy Sass says the layoffs are tough to take.Mattel was sold to Gores Technology Group last November. Employees say they were told the cuts are part of the California company’s restructuring plan to boost profits. Sass says they’re ready to get the change of ownership completed.Sass says although there are other jobs available, the cuts will hurt those with seniority.The company is not commenting on the cuts. Two hundred of the workers will be let go by the end of today.