Just check first that the MB_NG app is flashed and you have loaded the correct seq_l or seq_r.ngc. Was testing of the JA board okay?
To simulate DOUT behaviour you can try
set dout all 1
Or go through and count the dout pins (8 per chip) until you get to the correct IC -> replace all with the one you want to toggle. DOUT rows/cathode sink rows are given in previous pages.
The matrix is controlled by ICs 2 (cathodes) and 3 (DIN).
Having spare parts is always useful and could be used in future projects. I typically get 100 shift registers at a time.