I think you probably misunderstand the phrase "scientific study". A true "scientific study" will have a control group and then at least 2 or more sub groups that alter on both sides. To go further, if you're going on about "comfort level" of the fish, you need to pick up a copy of Heiko volume I and II and read about 1200+ pages solely dedicated to Discus. Also, you should elaborate on "what" Discus your attempting for this "study". The differences between the main two are across the boards and then in the subs, it goes further.
As for lack of structure making them easily spooked, there's a long continued debate in the Discus community from day one as to the "proper" or "right" or "perfect" Discus setup. I don't know where you are but perhaps a road trip to a breeder is your best avenue. Or at least an online search and then some phone calls.
As posted above, that is an excellent link to get some great info but I think you'd be able to find much better "research"in a species only forum such as this :
SimplyDiscus
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