The Nikkei index eked out small gains Thursday to snap a three-day losing streak, lifted by buying on dips amid an easing risk-off mood ahead of Japan’s general election and earnings releases by major companies. The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average ended up 38.43 points, or 0.10 percent, from Wednesday at 38,143.29. The broader Topix index finished 1.39 points, or 0.05 percent, lower at 2,635.57. On the top-tier Prime Market, gainers were led by electric appliance, miscellaneous product, and warehousing and harbor transportation service shares. The main decliners were electric power and gas, rub…