There are several AWers from outside the US that have US agents, so I think that may have changed since you last researched.
As for innovative/samey in the context of guidelines, without a mss to look at, there's no way to see what is/is not working, or what is/is not too far out there to get an offer from an agent, interest from an editor, and then pass an acquisitions board.
Best of luck with your shorts--and much empathy on the migraine, they can stop my world for days.
Thanks, ap. After a marathon sleep, my migraine has lessened. I will focus on the shorts for now, to see what I can get away with!