Problems with macOS Ventura 13.7 Update

Two days ago I installed the updated Safari and the update to macOS Ventura 13.6.9 to Ventura 13.7. After completing the installation and start up I logged in to macOS and the pop-up for optimization appeared. This panel led to the busy system rotating sprocket icon. This process continued for 9 hours without completion. I had to interrupt with power shutdown. Subsequently, each system power up goes to the optimization panel and the busy system sprocket icon ad infinitum– and will run until I power the system down. I note that the "optimization process" cannot be interrupted. My hardware is a moderately loaded 2018 Mac mini. Anyone with experience, suggestions here would be appreciated. HELP! Thanks, tom