Clarifications on Submission Guidelines

[lisasaurusrex]

Our team had some questions about the contest rules, particularly regarding the slate at the beginning of the animation and the "second of black". Is it okay if we have moving titles (on After Effects, Final Cut, etc) to display our title and team information or does it have to be a plain title screen?
Also, is it allowed for sound effects or music to begin playing before the actual animation begins? Does the time start counting immediately after the second of black is over, or does it only begin counting when the first image of your animation is shown?
Sorry if these questions are unclear. Thanks in advance for your help!