Did they manage to build and publish an evolution tree?

I think that’s beyond the meaning of sentient.

"sentient" is often used casually when "sapient" is meant

don't whether that's country-level language variation, an example of language evolution ;), or just sloppiness.

"Sapient" is a stupid term because a Denisovian or Neanderthal were likely able to produce a piece of research with some assistance, while being a Homo {not Sapient}.